Auto Daily

Car Reviewers

World Car News

Automobile News

Monday, December 15, 2008

As if driving the Ferrari F430 wasn't enough, 22-year Usain Bolt had the privilege of test driving the new BMW M3 to its limits at the BMW Vehicle Test Facility in Aschheim near Munich. Under the guidance of a professional BMW driver, Bolt took the 414-hp M3 from 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds and received his certificate after successful completion of the BMW Driver Training.

Usain Bolt seems to love the M3 just a little bit more than the Ferrari F430 describing his encounter with the BMW M3 Coupe as "love at first sight." Bolt's chief sponsor Puma has finally fulfilled his dream of owning a BMW M3 in special recognition of three gold medals at the Beijing Olympics.

His black BMW M3 Coupe is on its way to Kingston and is scheduled to be handed over to Olympic champion before Christmas. Not to shabby for a man who can run 100 meters in a record-breaking time of 9.69 seconds.

Usain Bolt Drives the BMW M3 Coupe:

The 2009 BMW Z4 has definitely become one my obsession these days. If I have already been a huge BMW fan, now I am a bigger one even. The 2009 Z4 is one of those cars that makes you fall in love with the BMW brand, a love that can and many times, will continue for many years to come.

The official 2009 BMW Z4 photos were already stunning and breathtaking, but these new Z4 wallpapers that just became available to us, are just…..from "another world". We have always knew that BMW has top notch cars, but we have to give huge props to their marketing and art departments as well, the artists at BMW that managed to find the right combination between the car and its surrounding.

Trust me, after you will see these photos in full resolution, you will most likely agree with me.

Brabham Racing from Germany is making its return to the upper ground, after going underground back in 1992. 'Underground' means bankrupt for our purposes. At Essen, Brabham aims to show the world that it's still alive and well, kicking even, starting with this combative-looking BMW M3 which is dubbed BT 92, '92 referencing that fateful year.

Not much has come our way in the sense of performance or engine details, safe to say that Brabham's Formula One experience, long in the tooth as it is, has come to assist it in tuning this car.

BMW has released the first details and images for its all-new BMW Z4 Roadster, which is set to make its debut next month at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show before going on sale in the following months. The design of the new Z4 comes out through classic details interpreted in a very modern style, highlighted by an automated folding aluminum roof.

The hardtop brings the Z4 in line with the competition, opening and closing in 20 seconds. The weight penalty is offset by greater security, better visibility and greater comfort. The side windows are 40% larger than the outgoing soft-top model, and the rear window is fully 52% larger. The Z4 also keeps its classic roadster proportions, with a long hood, short overhangs, and strong shoulders. However, the car's styling has been modernized with new integrated LED indicators on its flanks as well as on the head and tail-lamps.

The car that was supposed to offer BMW a worthy rival to the Mercedes-Benz CLS, Porsche Panamera and Maserati Quattroporte sports sedans, the production version of last year's CS Concept has fallen victim to the economic downturn and will not be produced after all. The announcement was made during a conference call on the Bavarian automaker's third quarter report. "The sharper focus on profitability will result, amongst other things, in product decisions being revisited. As a result, the BMW Group will no longer produce a series version of the Concept CS since this vehicle does not meet the internal requirements for rates of return," said BMW in a statement.

Fortunately, other future products of the BMW Group will not be affected by the firm's cost cutting strategy. This means that the launch of the production versions of the BMW Concept X1 SUV, BMW Concept 7 Series Active Hybrid, BMW X6 Active Hybrid and the MINI Crossover Concept will proceed ahead as planned.

The new M DCT transmission that the M3 will offer this summer. It's a Dual Clutch transmission that promises to be all things to all people. Apparently BMW has so much faith in the technology that they will be replacing the automatic in the 3 Series altogether next year for a non-M version of this dual clutch transmission.

Based on their technical similarity, you could expect the transmission to potentially find it's way to both the 1 Series and the X3 in the near future as well.

At the Frankfurt auto show last fall, BMW chief Norbert Reithofer confirmed that his company would build a car what he called a gran turismo.Its rivals will be the growing cadre of four-door coupes: the Mercedes-Benz CLS, the Aston Martin Rapide, and the Porsche Panamera.The BMW will be based on the upcoming new7-series and is expected to use the same powertrains.

Everyone is expecting the launch of the BMW 7 Series.Here are some cool shots of the sedan.The fifth-generation 7-series will come to the U.S. first as the V-8-powered 750i and its long-wheelbase counterpart, the 750Li.BMW has solved a dilemma caused by the abundance of technology in the 7-series by including an electronic owner's manual accessible via the iDrive interface.

Images of BMW's forthcoming E89 Z4 have surfaced ahead of its official launch.This new E89 Z4 will feature a folding hard-top roof as already used in the E93 3-Series convertible and is longer and wider than the E85 Z4 that it replaces.

Hamann was among the first tuners to offer a personalization kit for the 2008 BMW X6 sports activity coupe. Now, after almost five months of work, German tuner presents a comprehensive tuning program for the 2009 BMW X6 xDrive30d and xDrvie35d versions of the car increasing their available power to 265hp / 600Nm and 320hp / 660Nm respectively. Engine upgrade kit for the V8 twin-turbo-powered xDrive50i will be revealed closer to the end of the year.Hamann tuning kit for the 2009 BMW X6

The 2009 BMW X5 lineup gains a new diesel model, as well as new trim-level designations. This premium midsize SUV seats up to seven and is offered in three models, each with standard all-wheel drive. The xDrive30i replaces the 3.0si and has a 260-hp 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine. The xDrive48i replaces the 4.8i and has a 350-hp 4.8-liter V8. Due in calendar 2009 is the xDrive35d, which has a 265-hp 3.0-liter turbodiesel that is emissions legal in all 50 states. All X5s come with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Maximum towing capacity is 6000 lb. Standard seating is for five, but an optional 3rd row expands capacity to seven.

Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. Hill descent control is standard. All X5s have BMW's iDrive that uses a single knob to control entertainment, communication, navigation, and climate functions. An optional Sport Package includes BMW's Active Roll Stabilization, which counters body lean. Active Steering, designed to quicken low-speed steering response is available when the Sport Package is ordered. Also optional are a navigation system, head-up instrument display, DVD entertainment, rearview camera with front/rear obstacle detection, heated front and rear seats, and BMW Assist concierge service with wireless cell phone link.

BMW has released the first details and images for its all-new BMW Z4 Roadster, which is set to make its debut next month at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show before going on sale in the following months. The design of the new Z4 comes out through classic details interpreted in a very modern style, highlighted by an automated folding aluminum roof.

The hardtop brings the Z4 in line with the competition, opening and closing in 20 seconds. The weight penalty is offset by greater security, better visibility and greater comfort. The side windows are 40% larger than the outgoing soft-top model, and the rear window is fully 52% larger. The Z4 also keeps its classic roadster proportions, with a long hood, short overhangs, and strong shoulders. However, the car's styling has been modernized with new integrated LED indicators on its flanks as well as on the head and tail-lamps.

The new car is slightly larger outside than its predecessor, offering significantly more comfort and storage. The new car is 5.8in longer, 0.4in wider, and 0.3in lower than the outgoing model. The wheelbase has also grown 0.1in to measure 98.8in from axle to axle.Two powertrains will be available at the car's North America launch: a 300hp (224kW) twin-turbocharged 3.0L six wearing the new sDrive35i badge, and a 255hp (190kW) naturally aspirated version of the same engine in the sDrive30i model.

What's most impressive is the torque characteristics of the turbocharged mill, which maintains its peak levels of 300lb-ft through a broad rev range from 1,400 to 5,000rpm. This allows the car to accelerate from 0-60mph in 5.0 seconds flat and reach an electronically controlled top speed of 150mph when equipped with an optional sport pack. The 0-60mph acceleration time for the sDrive30i, meanwhile, is 5.6 seconds.

While both models are available with a manual six-speed gearbox, the Z4 sDrive35i is available also with a dual-clutch sport automatic transmission featuring seven gears. The six-speed sport automatic is available on the Z4 sDrive30i. Both sport automatic transmissions feature steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

We never know exactly what we're going to get when BMW introduces a new product. Most agree that the new 7-series is a visual improvement over the vehicle it replaces, but then there are all-new vehicles like the X6 that we're still trying to figure out, both from an aesthetic and functional point of view. We do, however, know exactly what a roadster is for and are often swayed by powerful turbocharged engines, so this new Z4—with its updated styling, optional turbos, and retractable hardtop—is likely to win us over.

We'd love to get right into the details, but first a little bit of housekeeping is in order. About a year ago, the BMW X6 brought with it a new way of identifying the company's all-wheel-drive models. The X6 xDrive35i and xDrive50i associated a brand, xDrive, with BMW's all-wheel-drive systems. Now that clumsy nomenclature style is being spread to the rear-drivers, with the Z4—in sDrive30i and sDrive35i forms—being the first to be saddled with the longer name. We're not sure how they arrived at sDrive and also wonder what confusion this was meant to clear up. (Were too many people asking dealers for the all-wheel-drive Z4?) In any event, get used to seeing three times as many characters tacked onto future Bimmers.

As the names suggest, the new Z4 models will be powered by two familiar 3.0-liter inline-six BMW powerplants. The sDrive30i will pack the naturally aspirated version found in the current Z4 and making 255 hp and 220 lb-ft of torque, while the sDrive35i adds twin turbochargers to produce an even 300 hp and 300 lb-ft. Both will come standard with a six-speed manual, and they carry quoted 0-to-60-mph times of 5.6 and 5.1 seconds, respectively. Opting for a six-speed automatic in the 30i slows the time down a bit, to 6.0. The optional transmission for the 35i is a version of the M DCT gearbox introduced in the latest M3, a seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual (or, as our German friends like to call it, a Doppelkupplungsgetriebe). Not only will the high-tech cogswapper lower 0–60 times—the quoted time is 5.0 seconds—but BMW also expects it to lower fuel consumption compared to the standard six-speed manual.

Aside from the new option of turbos, the roadster gets new styling that's partly the result of the use of a two-piece aluminum retractable hardtop. While not a huge departure from the current styling, the stylish new look has nicely sculpted details and what may be the largest kidney grille in BMW's current lineup. We're glad to see a less-stubby trunk, which was lengthened in order to fit the two roof panels. This affords a large-ish trunk (6.4 cubic feet with the top down, 10.9 with it up) that BMW claims can fit four crates of large bottles—perfect for those operating a Z4-based Biergarten. Glass area and all-around visibility are increased, as well.

The automatic top deploys and stows in 20 seconds to reveal an interior available with BMW's Sun Reflective leather, which keeps seats, interior panels, and the steering wheel cool to the touch in the face of those mean ultraviolet rays. An extended leather option for the 35i covers the instrument panel, sun visors, and passenger door handle with cowhide as well.

Hold onto your X6; it looks like BMW will have to make do with only one four-door coupe for the time being. We have word that the upcoming Gran Turismo is headed for the big tour in the sky.

The low-slung four-door 'coupe' was to be based on the new 7-series and modeled after the stunning Concept CS first shown at the 2007 Shanghai auto show. It would have become the company's flagship and gone on sale in 2010.

This is BMW's first casualty resulting from the weakened global economy. Company insiders say that all other projects are still on track, though the fate of a V-12–powered 760i replacement is questionable. The 7-series hybrid's audience may also be limited to the U.S. and Japan, as Europeans can instead opt for the diesel-powered 730d, which gets comparable fuel economy.

Sadly, one project that will live on is BMW's PAS. We would have happily traded the Gran Turismo for this odd-looking 'Progressive Activity Sedan'—yet another variation on the 5-series platform that splits hairs between the 5-series wagon and the niche-making X6.

With the Gran Turismo out of the picture, at least BMW won't have to fight with Maserati over the name. Better to stick to alphanumerics, anyway.

BMW dropped their hotrod oil burner today at the LA Auto Show, showcasing a twin-turbo 3.0 liter diesel engine that is both quick and clean. Clean enough to be legal in all 50 states while keeping it's fun factor. Power numbers sit pretty at 265 horses and 425 lbs-ft of torque; just enough to pull the porch off of your buddy's house, if you so desire. Sprints from 0-60 run at a very non-dieselish six seconds flat while fuel mileage estimates are 23 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the open road. Of course, iDrive is back with an all-new learning curve to bring many hours of knob-spinning glee as you fumble your way through a plethora of menus. Full details in the press release below.

BMW Advanced Diesel with BluePerformance: efficiency and dynamics in abundance With the introduction of the new BMW Advanced diesel powered 335d and X5 xDrive35d models, the BMW Group announces another step in its strategy for EfficientDynamics. Both models will feature a 50-state emission compliant version of BMW's award winning sequential-turbo 3.0-liter diesel engine - the first performance-oriented and efficient Advanced Diesel engine in BMW's U.S. line.

The sequential-turbo 3.0-liter diesel engine powering both models employs both a very small and a larger turbocharger combined with an innovative intake system enabling the engine to develop 265 hp. Even more impressive are the torque characteristics. Fully 80% of the torque is available from 1100rpm to 4200rpm. The peak torque is 425 lbs-ft at 1750rpm - almost as much as BMW's 6.0-liter V12. The performance is what the enthusiast would expect from a BMW. The 335d is capable of sprinting from 0 - 60 mph in six seconds flat. The X5 xDrive35d will do it in 6.9 seconds. No other diesels in the US will perform like this pair of BMW Advanced Diesel models.

Coupled with this performance potential is impressive fuel economy. The EPA mileage estimates for the 335d are 23 city and 36 highway. The X5 xDrive35d is rated at 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. Both offer the convenience of travelling approximately 580 miles between fill-ups.

Thanks to BluePerformance technology, this unparalleled blend of performance and efficiency can only be found in a BMW Advanced Diesel.

2009 BMW 3 Series Sedan and Sports Wagon: The quintessential sports sedan and wagon once again raise the bar The 2009 3 Series Sedan and Sports Wagon are poised to maintain market leadership with updated exterior and interior styling, new technologies, enhanced ergonomics and the introduction of BMW Advanced Diesel with BluePerformance in the 335d Sedan.

A Subtle freshening of exterior design features a new front end, more dynamic profile, and wider rear stance. Headlights and taillights are new, yet present a typically BMW look, innovative lighting technology and 3-dimensional effects. The refinement of the interior design reflects and complements the distinctive exterior design. Among functional updates are ergonomically enhanced placement of power-window controls for the driver and new, expanded storage possibilities.

The optional onboard navigation system features an all-new iDrive control concept and display. It offers new menus, new direct-select keys and Programmable Memory Keys. Subscribers to the optional BMW Assist Convenience Plan can access "BMW Search" to quickly find a desired business or other point of interest with just a key word search, using Google search technology and intelligence, even from the convenience of your home or office. Once a destination has been found, route guidance or a hands-free call from a Bluetooth® -linked phone is available at just a simple push of a button.

For 2009, BMW maintains its position as a leader in technology while providing the most innovative blend of performance and fuel economy that are the hallmarks of BMW EfficientDynamics.

If your dreams involve stomping around Terra Firma in a BMW X5 xDrive while running on good 'ole American diesel, consider yourself a step closer. BMW unveiled their X5 xDrive35d today, with it's sequentially turbocharged six-pot diesel, at the LA Auto Show. Precisely the same powerplant is slotted for the 335d Sedan. Fuel mileage estimates sit at an acceptable 19mpg city and 26mpg highway while making 0-60 jaunts a 6.9 second affair. Power output is rated at 265 horsepower with 425 reality-bending pound-feet of torque. Full press release below the jump.

Check out more on the BMW X5 from CarandDriver.com

BMW Advanced Diesel with BluePerformance: efficiency and dynamics in abundance With the introduction of the new BMW Advanced diesel powered 335d and X5 xDrive35d models, the BMW Group announces another step in its strategy for EfficientDynamics. Both models will feature a 50-state emission compliant version of BMW's award winning sequential-turbo 3.0-liter diesel engine - the first performance-oriented and efficient Advanced Diesel engine in BMW's U.S. line.

The sequential-turbo 3.0-liter diesel engine powering both models employs both a very small and a larger turbocharger combined with an innovative intake system enabling the engine to develop 265 hp. Even more impressive are the torque characteristics. Fully 80% of the torque is available from 1100rpm to 4200rpm. The peak torque is 425 lbs-ft at 1750rpm - almost as much as BMW's 6.0-liter V12. The performance is what the enthusiast would expect from a BMW. The 335d is capable of sprinting from 0 - 60 mph in six seconds flat. The X5 xDrive35d will do it in 6.9 seconds. No other diesels in the US will perform like this pair of BMW Advanced Diesel models.

Coupled with this performance potential is impressive fuel economy. The EPA mileage estimates for the 335d are 23 city and 36 highway. The X5 xDrive35d is rated at 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. Both offer the convenience of travelling approximately 580 miles between fill-ups.

Thanks to BluePerformance technology, this unparalleled blend of performance and efficiency can only be found in a BMW Advanced Diesel.

Ahead of its official reveal at the LA Auto Show, the official details on the BMW Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid have finally been released after months of us sitting on the edges of our seats, waiting with bated breath. The ActiveHybrid (as opposed to the other name considered, "LazyHybrid") is a "preview of potential" for things to come from BMW and shows off a mild hybrid operating from a motor integrated transmission, which was jointly developed with Chrysler and General Motors. The motor "assists" a 400 HP, 450 lb-ft, 4.4 liter V8 with its own 20 HP and 155 lb-ft of torque providing oil barons with cognitive dissonance the feel-good benefit of 15% better fuel economy. Complete details in an uncompromisingly self satisfied press release below.

Check out more on the 7-series Hybrid Concept from CarandDriver.com

BMW Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid: The BMW of hybridsAs an integral part of the BMW EfficientDynamics strategy, the BMW Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid previews the potential of BMW ActiveHybrid technology in a luxury sedan. In typical BMW fashion, this new concept car combines a significant reduction of fuel consumption and emissions with a level of driving dynamics never seen before even in this class of hybrid cars.

The BMW Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid is an intelligent symbiosis of BMW's new twin-turbo V8 engine and electric drive as a mild hybrid concept. A compact electric motor, integrated into the transmission housing, replaces the conventional alternator as well as the starter. Power to run all electrics on-board the car is generated by means of Brake Energy Regeneration. The combination of internal combustion engine and electric motor take the twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8's already potent 400 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque and supplies an additional 20 horsepower and up to 155 lb-ft of torque as needed. The drivetrain technology featured in the concept car allows enhanced driving dynamics together with a reduction of fuel consumption and emissions by 15 percent in the EU test cycle compared to the same car running on a combustion engine alone. At the same time the use of BMW ActiveHybrid technology does not require any compromises in driving qualities and features of the BMW 7 Series.

Energy is stored in a compact lithium-ion battery housed in the luggage compartment. An Auto Start Stop function helps to ensure optimum efficiency in all driving situations.

The hybrid technology showcased in the BMW Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid is perfectly suited to the new benchmark in the full-sized performance luxury sedan segment just as the two-mode hybrid technology used in the BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid, also on display in Los Angeles, is well matched to the world's first Sports Activity Coupe.

BMW Group In America BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and the Rolls-Royce brand of Motor Cars; DesignworksUSA, an industrial design firm in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW Group's global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing plant for all Z4 models and X5 Sports Activity Vehicles and the upcoming X6 Sport Activity Coupe. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 338 BMW passenger car centers, 335 BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 142 BMW motorcycle retailers, 83 MINI passenger car dealers, and 30 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group's sales headquarters for North, Central and South America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

The next generation 7-Series has officially arrived, though if you've been paying attention you've already seen the 2009 BMW 7-series and therefore know that the design team has gone to great effort to correct the car's awkward-looking posterior. A new twin-turbocharged, direct-injection 4.4-liter V8 manages 400 HP and 450 lb-ft of torque, which should make the chauffeur happy. If you find yourself behind the wheel there's a plethora of technology to keep you from killing yourself including Active Cruise Control, Active Blind Spot Detection, BMW Night Vision and cameras on the side and rear of the luxo-yacht. The new 7-series is also the first BMW with a multi-link double-wishbone front suspension. It's something to think about on the way to the appointment with your increasingly distressed stock broker.

BMW 7 Series again sets the benchmark The all-new fifth generation of the BMW 7 Series radiates a natural presence, inherent sportiness and an elegance born of precision in concept and execution. A new V-8 engine with direct injection and twin turbochargers expresses BMW EfficientDynamics at the highest level of performance. The 4.4-liter, twin-turbo V-8 delivers 400 hp and 450lb-ft of torque. New, exclusive BMW driver-assistance systems and comfort-related features further add to a truly exceptional driving and riding experience.

Inside the new 7, the ambiance is luxurious, of transcendent quality and - most important of all - inviting. The driver-oriented control center features Black Panel technology. More functions than ever are conveniently accessible to the driver from the multi-function steering wheel.

The new 7 is BMW's first passenger car with multi-link double-wishbone front suspension. The new Integral V rear suspension incorporates extensive use of aluminum. On the long wheelbase 750Li, self-leveling air suspension is standard. Also new, and a world premiere: Integral Active Steering, which adds speed-sensitive rear-wheel steering. With the standard Driving Dynamics Control, the driver can choose between four settings for shock-absorber firmness, transmission shift characteristics, engine-throttle response and power-steering assist.

An array of innovative driver-assistance options unique in the luxury segment includes Active Cruise Control with new stop-and-go capability, Lane Departure Warning, Active Blind Spot Detection, Head-up Display, High Beam Assistant, BMW Night Vision with new Pedestrian Detection, Side View and Back-up Cameras.

All of this will make the new 7 once again the benchmark for performance, luxury, efficiency and safety when it arrives in the US in early 2009.

Australian racing legend Sir Jack Brabham has revealed that he is disappointed that a company in Germany, which he has no association with, is using his name to promote a range of aftermarket performance parts and accessories. The tuning firm is Germany's Brabham Racing, which plans to develop a range of performance modifications, including whole cars, based on the BMW M3, M5 and X6 SUV. Brabham, now 82, together with his family is considering mounting legal action against the German firm despite his poor state of health.

BMW will soon be adding another model to its armored 'Security' division with the sighting of this 2009 7-Series prototype in Germany suggesting that development of an armored version of the latest saloon is well underway. The latest model comes just months after the reveal of the existing 5-Series and X5 Security models. Clear giveaways that this is in fact an armored model are the wide fail-safe tires and ministerial flag holders on the front fenders. Like the current Security models, the new 7-Series version will likely be rated at VR4 ballistic protection level.

BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer recently revealed plans to phase out diesel V8 engines across the board, but as drastic as this sounds it could be just the tip of the iceberg for the carmaker's future plans to shakeup its powertrain lineup. BMW's hallowed 'M' division could also be affected by the new wave of environmental consciousness sweeping carmakers across the world, the end result being smaller engines and turbochargers in future M cars. Speaking with AutoWeek, high-ranking BMW sources have revealed that the 4.0L and 5.0L high-rev V8 and V10 engines in the current M lineup will make way for forced-induction engines, possibly as early as next year.